A silent agricultural revolution is sweeping across Vihiga County as coffee farmers begin reaping the rewards of newly restructured cooperative societies.
Following months of management audits and forensic reviews ordered by the county administration, local wet mills (coffee factories) have severed ties with exploitative intermediaries.
Under the new cooperative framework, societies in Sabatia, Hamisi, and Luanda are now negotiating direct supply contracts with tier-one milling and exporting firms based in Nairobi. The arrangement guarantees farmers instant mobile-money delivery of 80% upon cherry delivery, with the remaining balance disbursed after milling grades are finalised.
Primary cooperative leaders reported an immediate surge in deliveries, with aggregate tonnage projected to double compared to previous cycles. The county department of agriculture has also rolled out subsidised organic fertiliser packs to participating farmers to safeguard soil pH and improve bean density.
